AI In-Brief

Thailand News in Brief

Thai PBS World

Thailand and the world, every day

AI can make mistakes. Please double-check.

Nine rebel Kao Klai MPs refuse to join party’s bid to amend lèse majesté law

21 Sept 04:40 Key points summarised by AI

Nine Kao Klai party MPs have publicly refused to support their party's proposed amendments to Thailand's lèse majesté law, highlighting internal dissent.
Despite the rebellion, 44 MPs, led by party leader Pita Limjaroenrat, back the bill to reduce lèse majesté penalties and also plan to remove imprisonment as a penalty for defamation.

Yesterday 17:04 Key points summarised by AI

Civic groups, including those representing labourers and older people, submitted a protest letter demanding the Bhumjaithai Party withdraw bills to shift funding for four organizations (Thai PBS, Older Persons Fund, Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Sports Authority of Thailand) from earmarked taxes to the central government budget.
Leaders argue these organizations were established for public interest, supporting public service media, elder care, public health, and sports development, and any amendments should consider all stakeholders' views.
Over 70% of parliamentary poll respondents opposed the proposed changes, prompting civic leaders to call on the ruling party to respect the people's will and withdraw the bills.
A network of slum dwellers also opposes the funding changes, threatening a rally if the government fails to address their demands.